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Sounds like it’s Rundblad, not TVR, in for Chicago on defense

Columbus Blue Jackets v Chicago Blackhawks

Columbus Blue Jackets v Chicago Blackhawks

NHLI via Getty Images

The rotating door of Chicago’s depth defensemen continued Wedensday morning as David Rundblad looked and sounded as though he’d draw in for tonight’s Western Conference Final Game 6 at the United Center.

Rundblad on stepping in for Game 6: “Maybe it’s not the easiest thing, but it’s still exciting. And I’d rather play games than bag skate.”

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) May 27, 2015


Timonen stayed out for extra skating after the skate, which means he’s likely out. Rundblad was in before him, likely playing w/Cumiskey. — Brian Hedger (@BrianHedger) May 27, 2015

After this morning’s skate, ‘Hawks head coach Joel Quenneville addressed the potential change.

Q. Looks like David Rundblad is in for the team tonight, is that correct?

Quenneville: It could happen.

Q. How much does he have to shake off that first game and be himself?

Quenneville: You have to move on. You’re playing the next game. You’re playing the next shift. You got to be confident. You got to be comfortable and play.

Q. With Kimmo looking like he’s going to be a scratch, is it disappointing what you’ve gotten from him, the minutes you’ve had to play him?

Quenneville: He’s been useful in ways. I think you like his experience around the net. Defensively he’s got a good presence, good understanding, a good stick.

He keeps it simple. So I think that reliability has been useful.

(Is “useful in ways” the most backhanded compliment ever? I say yes.)

Speaking of Timonen, it’s not a surprise Coach Q has opted to park him. The veteran Finn has been exposed by the Ducks even while playing limited and sheltered minutes; Timonen’s speed is an issue, especially against Anaheim’s rather quick bottom-six forward group.

As for Trevor van Riemsdyk... while Quenneville sounded optimistic about the youngster’s chances yesterday, that enthusiasm was dampened today, and it shouldn’t be a huge surprise -- TVR has missed most of this season with wrist and knee injuries, and only resumed practicing last week.